College of Liberal Arts Alumnus of the Year

Herb J. Santos, Jr.
’85 BA Sociology

After graduation, Mr. Santos worked as a social worker serving homeless families, then later earned his law degree. As an attorney, he has earned the AV peer review rating by Martindale Hubbell, the highest rating possible. He has served as president of the Nevada Justice Association and in 2014 was appointed by Gov. Brian Sandoval to sit on the Nevada State Tourism Commission.

Why I’m a proud graduate of UNLV …
I still remember standing on the floor of the Thomas and Mack Center, in my cap and gown, reflecting on the past and dreaming of the future. I stood there thinking fondly of my various study groups, working full time, cramming for finals, stressing over statistics, weekend parties, friends, and Runnin’ Rebels basketball.

That was thirty-two years ago and today I can say, without reservation, that my years at UNLV simply prepared me for life. UNLV was where I learned that in order to make informed “life” decisions, I needed to consider and evaluate as much information as possible. The Liberal Arts program provided me a venue where I would be exposed to a variety of courses. This in turn broadened my exposure to the world and resulted in teaching me how to think independently and analytically.

UNLV provided me with the opportunity to grow and develop as a person. I developed the confidence that I could pursue a career in law and knowledge that there are no limits to what I could accomplish. So yes, I am a proud graduate of UNLV. Proud of what the school stood for in 1985, proud of what it is today, and proud and excited for its future. GO REBELS!!!